One for the Books: Gaines’s Safety Director Surprised With Recognition at Prominent Award Ceremony
Dominic was presented the Richard G. Anderson Safety Award by none other than Richard G. Anderson, who is part of MMTA’s awards selection committee. What an honor!
On February 12, 2026, Safety Director Dominic Pope accompanied Driver Steve Silverberg to the Maritime Conference Center for the annual Maryland Motor Truck Association (MMTA) Safety Management Council Safety Awards Banquet, where Steve was presented the Driver of the Month award. However, Dominic was in for a surprise when his name was also called to the podium to receive the prestigious Safety Professional of the Year Award.
The Richard G. Anderson Safety Professional of the Year Award is named after a long-time MMTA member who tirelessly advocates safety. Hmmm… Sounds like someone we know at Gaines.
“Ask anyone at Gaines and they will tell you that Dominic is passionate about his work – not because it’s his job, but because he cares deeply about the health and safety of each of our employees,” said Vice President David Gaines.
Dominic accepts MMTA’s Safety Management Council Richard G. Anderson Safety Professional of the Year Award.
Since coming to Gaines in 2013, Dominic has not been a safety compliance officer; he is a safety visionary who has transformed our safety culture from a priority to a non-negotiable value.
“I know what it’s like to work for a company that doesn’t prioritize safety,” said Dominic. “When I came to Gaines, I made it my number one priority to create a safety culture where the entire organization felt empowered to speak up for safety without retaliation.”
And that is what he’s done—and more!
Keeping our team on the forefront of technology, Dominic worked with Lightship on a pilot program that gamified our drivers’ real-life roadway scenarios to teach and encourage safe driving.
Beginning his career in the field as a highly experienced CDL Class A Lowboy Operator and Heavy Equipment Operator, Dominic understands the industry’s hazards and connects with employees.
His technical prowess is validated by his extensive accreditations, including Certified Health and Safety Technician (CHST), Advanced Safety Certificate, and authorization as an OSHA 500 and 501 Instructor. Because of these accreditations, he personally shares his knowledge through comprehensive and relatable employee trainings.
Recognizing employees for their outstanding safety performance on and off the job, Dominic created Gaines’s Safety Excellence Program.
It’s clear to see Dominic’s safety leadership is making a difference. Just look at our safety records. Since Dominic joined us, we have significantly lowered our Total Recordable Incident Rate (RIR), and our low 5-year average Experience Modification Rate (EMR) indicates that his initiatives produce long-term safety excellence.
But his dedication to construction safety isn’t limited within the Gaines organization. Dominic goes out of his way to share his expertise with prominent industry organizations, as well.
Dominic not only trains our employees, but he actively keeps himself current on industry compliance, safety regulations, and issues to ensure he brings the best information and practices back to our teams.
He is currently a board member for the Chesapeake Region Safety Council, Associated Utility Contractors of Maryland (AUC), and National Contractors Insurance (NCI). He is also actively involved with the Construction Angels Charity.
“Dominic earned a positive reputation throughout the industry – rightfully so. He goes above and beyond for us every day, keeping our job sites safe, leading by example, and – most of all – enhancing our safety culture,” said David. “I couldn’t think of a person more deserving of this recognition. We are so grateful to have him on our team!”
Congratulations, Dominic, on this well-deserved recognition! Read more about the innovative ways Dominic has guided the transformation of our safety culture on our blog.
Gaines and Company is a full-service grading and excavation company with offices in Maryland and North Carolina. The organization has over 70 years of experience in underground utilities, grading and excavating, sediment and erosion controls, and road work. Gaines and Company delivers safe, reliable, turnkey site development services in Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C. on time and within budget.
